1. United States
  2. Iowa
  3. Letter

Demand Action on Library of Congress Appointments and Violations

To: Sen. Ernst, Sen. Grassley, Rep. Nunn

From: A constituent in Des Moines, IA

May 15, 2025

I’m writing because the recent actions concerning the Library of Congress demand leadership, oversight, and swift response. I expect to hear from you directly — what do you intend to do? According to an AP report, Donald Trump’s criminal defense attorney, Todd Blanche, was named acting Librarian of Congress, replacing Senate-confirmed Dr. Carla Hayden, who was removed under partisan pressure. Meanwhile, Trump loyalists Brian Nieves and Paul Perkins were placed in senior roles and reportedly tried to enter the U.S. Copyright Office without proper authority — prompting Capitol Police involvement. This is not routine. It’s a politically motivated takeover of a neutral federal institution. Below are the violations I expect you to address. Legal Violations: 1 Abuse of Power
Dr. Hayden’s removal may violate the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978.
Will you investigate this retaliation? 2 Improper Appointments
If made without Senate oversight or in violation of the Federal Vacancies Reform Act, these appointments are unlawful.
Will you seek a legal review? 3 Unauthorized Access
Nieves and Perkins tried to enter a restricted federal office without credentials. This may violate 18 U.S. Code § 1382 or 5 U.S. Code § 3331.
Will you refer this for inquiry? Ethical Violations: 4 Conflict of Interest
Blanche serves as Trump’s criminal defense attorney while overseeing public records — a serious conflict of interest.
Do you support this? Will you call for his removal? 5 Politicization of Public Knowledge
The Library should remain nonpartisan. What’s your plan to restore its independence? 6 Chilling Effect on Intellectual Freedom
Dr. Hayden — the first Black and first woman Librarian — was ousted for political reasons, threatening public trust.
Will you speak out against this purge? I urge you to: • Call for congressional hearings • Oppose these appointments publicly • Support safeguards for institutional neutrality • Demand reversal of these roles • Condemn retaliatory firings and improper access This is not about policy — it’s about power and the erosion of lawful governance. Please respond directly to each issue above. I will be sharing your reply with others in our community.

Share on BlueskyShare on TwitterShare on FacebookShare on LinkedInShare on WhatsAppShare on TumblrEmail with GmailEmail

Write to Joni Ernst or any of your elected officials

Send your own letter

Or text write to 50409

Resistbot is a chatbot that delivers your texts to your elected officials by email, fax, or postal mail. Tap above to give it a try or learn more here!